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International Drivers License UK

If you are a foreign national living in the UK, or are visiting for an extended period, it is essential to know how to drive there. While many people opt to get an International driver’s License (IDL) to make this easier, there are some things you should be aware of before getting behind the wheel. This post will discuss what you need to know about driving in the UK with an IDL. So stay safe, and enjoy your time on British roads!

What is an International driver’s License (IDL)?

An International driver’s LicenseLicense is a permit that allows you to drive in another country, provided that you have a valid license from your home country. The IDL is not a stand-alone license; your regular driver’s LicenseLicense must accompany it. You must apply through a local motor vehicle agency in your home country to obtain an IDL.

You will need to provide proof of identity, residency, and driving experience, as well as pass a written exam and possibly a driving test. Once issued, your IDL will be valid for one year, after which you will need to renew it.

How to get an IDL?

To Get An International Driving License UK Online Application Form, You must have a national or domestic driving license to submit your application online. You can apply for an IDL from the Association of British Drivers (ABD). The ABD is a national organization representing drivers’ interests in the UK.

To apply for an IDL, you will need to:

1. be a member of the ABD

2. have a full UK driving licence from your country of residence

3. have held your licence for at least one year

4. be aged 18 or over

5. have completed the ABD’s International Drivers License Application Form

6. enclose a passport-sized photograph

7. enclose the appropriate fee

8. enclose a copy of your driving licence

9. enclose a copy of your passport or another form of identification

Once your application is received and processed, you will be issued an IDL.

How to use your IDL?

The international driving permit is an identity document that permits the holder to drive a private motor vehicle in any country that recognizes IDPs.

IDPs are printed in multiple languages – the front side of the IDP contains your photo and personal information in English. In contrast, the reverse side has the same information translated into the official language or languages of the country or countries you will be visiting.

Lost or stolen IDLs:

If your IDL is lost or stolen, you should report this to the local police and obtain a copy of the police report. You will also need to contact the issuing authority to have your IDL replaced.

Renewing or replacing your IDL :

IDLs are valid for one year from the date of issue. If you need to renew or replace your IDL, you must submit a new application with the appropriate fee.

Fees associated with obtaining and using an IDL:

There is a fee associated with applying for and obtaining an IDL. In addition, some countries may charge a fee for using an IDL to drive within their borders. Be sure to check with the local authorities in the country you will be visiting to find out if there are any additional fees.

Applying for an IDL from outside the UK:

If you are not a resident of the UK, you can still apply for an IDL through the ABD. However, you will need proof of your driving experience and a copy of your driver’s international licence and passport. You will also need to enclose the appropriate fee.

What are the requirements for driving in the UK with an IDL?

If you have an IDL from your home country, you may drive in the UK for up to 12 months. After that, you must obtain a British driver’s LicenseLicense. To do so, you will need to pass a written exam and a driving test.

When driving in the UK with an IDL, it is essential to remember that:

  • you must have your regular driver’s LicenseLicense as well as your IDL

  • you are subject to the same rules and regulations as British drivers

  • it would be best if you had insurance that covers you driving in the UK

  • you must have a valid passport

Driving in the UK with an IDL:

If you are planning on driving in the UK with an IDL, there are a few things to keep in mind.

  • First, you must be at least 17 years old and have held your home country’s driver’s LicenseLicense for at least one year.

  • You must have your IDL while driving and your regular driver’s LicenseLicense.

  • When renting a car, you may need to provide additional documentation, such as your passport as proof of identification, if presenting an older paper version licence.

  • Familiarize yourself with the local traffic laws before hitting the road.

  • In the UK, drivers drive on the left side of the road and yield to oncoming traffic when making turns.

  • Roundabouts are also common, so be sure to yield to traffic already in the circle.

  • Speed limits are posted and must be obeyed at all times. If you are caught speeding, you can expect to be fined

  • When parking, be aware of the local regulations. For example, in London, you must purchase a daily parking permit to park on the street.

What are the benefits of having an IDL?

There are many benefits to having an IDL, including the following:

1. The ability to drive in multiple countries without obtaining a new driver’s License for each one.

2. An IDL is often required if you want to rent your own car in another country.

3. An IDL can be used as a form of identification, even if you don’t have your regular driver’s LicenseLicense.

4. Having an IDL can make driving in unfamiliar territory much easier, as it provides translations of standard traffic signs and words into different languages.

5. If the police pull you over in another country, an IDL can help them understand that you are a tourist and not familiar with the local traffic laws.

Conclusion:

An IDL can be a helpful tool for anyone who plans on driving in multiple countries. However, it is essential to remember that an IDL is not a substitute for a regular driver’s LicenseLicense, and you will still need to comply with local traffic laws. Therefore, be sure to carry your IDL with you when driving and your regular driver’s LicenseLicense, and familiarize yourself with the local regulations before hitting the road.

FAQs:

How long can I drive in the UK with an IDL?

If you have an IDL from your home country, you may drive in the UK for up to 12 months. After that, you must obtain a British driver’s LicenseLicense.

Do I need insurance to drive in the UK with an IDL?

Yes, it would be best if you had insurance that covers your driving in the UK.

What do I need to do to apply for an IDL?

If you are a resident of the UK, you can apply for an IDL through the ABD. If you are not a resident of the UK, you can still use an IDL through the ABD, but you will need to provide additional documentation, such as your passport and proof of insurance.

How much does an IDL cost?

An IDL costs £34.99.

What’s your experience been using an international driver’s LicenseLicense in the UK?

Using an IDL in the UK is very helpful. It has made driving in unfamiliar territory much easier, as it provides translations of common traffic signs and words into different languages.

How long did it take you to get your international driver’s LicenseLicense? 

I got my international driving licence through the ABD, which was a swift and easy process. I just had to fill out an application and provide some documentation, such as my passport and proof of insurance. The whole process only took a few days, and I was able to start driving in the UK immediately.

Can tourists drive in the UK?

Yes, tourists can drive in the UK with a valid licence from their home country. However, consider getting an IDL if you plan on going for an extended time.

What is the process for renting a car in the UK with an IDL?

When renting a car in the UK with an IDL, you will need to provide your regular driver’s UK licence and IDL. You may also need to provide additional documentation, such as your passport and proof of car insurance.

What is the process for hiring a car abroad?

When hiring a car abroad, remember that licence requirements worldwide do vary. Please visit the Gov.UK website for the latest guidance on driving abroad. If you’re making a reservation in the UK, ask the company concerned to confirm the driving licence requirements of the countries you visit.

Is an IDL valid for life?

No, an IDL is only valid for one year from the date of issue. After that, you must obtain a new one.

Do we need an IDP to drive in European Union countries?

The Gov.UK website says you might need an IDP to drive in some EU countries and Norway if: you only have a paper driving licence (and not a photographic card licence).

How can I get my UK driving LicenseLicense fast?

There is no fast way to get a valid UK driving licence. The process usually takes several weeks.

Can I drive in the UK with a UAE license?

Yes, you can drive in the UK with a UAE driver’s LicenseLicense. However, you must obtain an IDL if you plan to move for an extended period.